The adage, “The more things change, the more they stay the same,” may well have marked the chassis-leasing space over a 50-year timeframe. However, the last several years have laid this saying to rest as the marine chassis segment has evolved. The continued mergers and alliances within the global shipping arena have significantly impacted this evolution, as ocean carriers divested owned chassis assets and motor carriers, BCOs, logistics groups, and ocean carriers all changed the way they secure chassis. All said, the intermodal equipment provider’s world has changed dramatically and is squarely positioned to continue to do so this year and beyond.
While direct leasing of chassis continues, the customer base is significantly different as a result of the chassis pool evolution. As ocean carriers will continue to play a significant role, the BCO, motor carrier, and 3PL prominence will increase over the coming years, especially as chassis pools move toward an “open choice” model and ocean carriers further distance themselves from chassis provisioning. Shippers, who ultimately pay the bill for chassis use, must have options in order to ensure the best product for the best price.
Meanwhile, the aging US chassis fleet requires continued investment and upgraded equipment to balance the fleet. We should keep in mind that the most important aspect of equipment is condition and reliability, not age. Marine chassis are subject to rigorous inspection at almost every interchange point. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and terminal inspections, supported by ILWU and ILA mechanics, ensure safe and reliable equipment is delivered. The end-user of the asset should expect nothing less than a quality product at a competitive price, backed with excellent service and responsive providers.
As the chassis model continues to evolve, intermodal equipment providers will continue to “up their game.” The change ahead offers great opportunity for supply chain efficiency, and it’s clear the marine chassis segment will certainly not “stay the same.”